160 Nigerian police officers have been awarded the African Union medal of honor for their outstanding service and contribution to peace and security in Somalia.
The officers, part of the 12th contingent of the Nigeria Formed Police Unit (NFPU-12), were recognized for their courage, resilience, and dedication to protecting the Somali people.
ATMIS Police Commissioner, CP Hillary Sao Kanu, praised the officers for their commendable performance during their one-year tour of duty, saying, “Your service has been marked by courage, resilience, and a steadfast dedication to protecting the Somali people and supporting their aspirations for a peaceful, safe, and secure country.”
The ceremony was attended by senior ATMIS Police and military officials, including ATMIS Police Training Coordinator, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Samuel Asiedu Okanta, and Nigerian Contingent Commander, Chief Superintendent Shehu Gani Ahmed, who commended the officers for their outstanding performance and contribution to the overall ATMIS mandate.
The Nigerian Formed Police Unit is part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which provides operational support to the Somali Police Force, including VIP escort and protection, security at high-level events, and mentorship and training of SPF officers. Other countries contributing to Formed Police Units to ATMIS include Ghana, Uganda, and Sierra Leone.